Redfearn hopes to be Leeds United’s long term solution

Tony Harber

With the appointment of Dewsbury-born Neil Redfearn as head coach on a full-time basis Leeds United fans will be hoping things finally settle down after a hectic and messy 2014-15 season so far.

Redfearn was announced as the successor to Darko Milanic just before kick-off in last Saturday’s game, signing a one-year rolling deal with an option to go back to being academy boss if it does not work out.

The decision did not immediately pay dividends as United promptly lost 3-1 at Cardiff City and lifelong Leeds fan Redfearn’s big night at Elland Road in permanent charge for his first home game was ruined by a controversial penalty decision as the Whites drew 2-2 with Charlton on Tuesday night.

But the new head coach has seen some positives already, particularly in the form of teenage midfielder Alex Mowatt, who has scored all three of the goals Leeds have managed so far in the Redfearn era.

Defensive howlers have proved the undoing of United in the last two games so there is work to do and Redfearn believes he will be given time after seeking assurances from owner Massimo Cellino before agreeing to take on the top job .

He said: “I spoke to Massimo and we talked about things going forward, which was a key point for me.

“I asked if he sees me as the future and he said he does, which is great for me. We need a period of continuity at the club now.

“I’ve supported Leeds since a kid, I’ve worked for them for six years and have put in a lot of hard work.

“I know this club like the back of my hand. As far as I am concerned, it’s the right time for me and the right time for the club.

“There is the caveat that I can go back to the academy if it does not work out, but I am very proud.

“It is a fantastic thing for me and I am determined to do well for everybody - the players, supporters, staff and young players at this great club. We now need to kick on as a club.”

Leeds are back at home this Saturday when they tackle struggling Blackpool, another club with a new manager settling in after Lee Clark was appointed last week with the aim of lifting them off the bottom of the table.

United will be without defender Giuseppe Bellusci, who was booked when giving away the crucial penalty against Charlton, is now banned for one game. But they have skipper Jason Pearce back after his suspension.